Routine vehicle inspections and ongoing truck maintenance play a critical role in preventing commercial vehicle accidents. When these vital procedures are neglected, significant safety hazards—from worn-out tires to malfunctioning engine components—can be missed, putting everyone on the road at risk.

Inadequate Truck Inspections & Maintenance: Understanding the Risks

Semi-truck, big rig, and 18-wheeler accidents can have devastating consequences due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. While many factors contribute to large truck accidents—such as driver fatigue, poor weather conditions, and mechanical failures—improper or inadequate vehicle maintenance remains a leading preventable cause of commercial vehicle collisions in Louisiana and nationwide.

When trucks are not regularly inspected or serviced, the risk of accidents increases significantly. Failing to check tractors, trailers, and other commercial vehicles for faulty, worn-out, or defective components results in dangerous vehicles traveling along our shared highways and roads. This leads to devastating accidents due to tire blowouts, brake failures, and other problems.

The Importance of Routine Truck Maintenance

Routine maintenance is essential for ensuring that a truck operates safely. This includes regular checks on crucial components such as:

Brakes: A malfunctioning braking system can lead to catastrophic accidents. Regular inspections can catch wear and tear before critical failure.
Tires: Proper tire maintenance, including checking for tread depth and air pressure, is vital. Under-inflated or worn-out tires can reduce traction and increase stopping distances.
Lights and Signals: Functioning lights and turn signals are crucial for visibility and communication with other drivers, especially at night or in poor weather.
Engine and Transmission: Regular service can help prevent breakdowns that might occur during transport, leading to dangerous situations on the road.

By adhering to a rigorous maintenance schedule, trucking companies can reduce the likelihood of mechanical failures that might lead to accidents.

The Role of Regular Truck Inspections

Inspections play a critical role in the overall safety of truck operations. In Louisiana, federal and state regulations mandate that commercial trucks undergo routine inspections.

These inspections typically focus on key safety components, including:

Pre-Trip Inspections: Drivers should perform checks before hitting the road. This includes inspecting brakes, lights, tires, and fluid levels, among other vehicle components. These assessments help identify potential issues that could cause accidents.
Annual Inspections: In addition to daily checks, trucks must also undergo thorough inspections at least once a year by certified mechanics. These inspections provide a comprehensive overview of a truck's mechanical condition.
Post-Accident Inspections: If an accident occurs, a post-accident inspection is crucial for determining whether vehicle maintenance or other factors contributed to the incident.

Properly documented inspections serve as critical evidence in the event of a crash. If a truck has not been adequately maintained or inspected, the trucking company or another responsible party may be held liable for negligence.

How Trucking Companies Can Promote a Safety-First Culture

To further reduce the risk of truck accidents, trucking companies should foster a culture of safety. This includes:

Training Drivers: Trucking companies should ensure that drivers understand the importance of vehicle maintenance and inspections. They should also make sure drivers are properly trained in how to perform pre-trip inspections and what steps to take if an issue is detected.
Keeping Accurate and Detailed Records: It’s important that trucking companies maintain accurate records of all maintenance and inspections, as this can provide accountability and assist in legal matters if needed.
Investing in Technology: Utilizing advanced monitoring systems can help track vehicle performance and identify issues before they lead to accidents. Trucking companies should consider investing in advanced technology to improve safety.

These are just some examples of how trucking companies can reduce the risk of accidents and keep others safe. However, many fail to take even the most basic safety measures. These entities must be held accountable.

Can You Sue a Trucking Company for Failing to Inspect or Maintain Trucks?

When truck accidents occur due to maintenance or inspection failures, injured parties can pursue compensation through personal injury claims. In Louisiana, negligence laws allow victims to seek damages if they can prove that the trucking company failed to uphold its duty of care.

This can include showing that:

The trucking company did not follow maintenance protocols
Routine inspections were skipped or inadequately performed
The truck was unsafe for operation due to neglect

By holding companies accountable for maintenance and inspection failures, accident victims can receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

In short, the role of maintenance and inspections in preventing truck accidents cannot be overstated. By prioritizing regular maintenance and adhering to inspection requirements, trucking companies can significantly enhance road safety. For victims of truck accidents, understanding these factors is essential in pursuing justice and compensation.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help navigate the complexities of your case. Remember, safety is a shared responsibility, and accountability begins with proper truck maintenance and inspections.